Research Support for EfficiencyOne’s DSM Plan

Location: Nova Scotia | Client: EfficiencyOne | Client type: Utility

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THE OPPORTUNITY

EfficiencyOne (E1), an energy efficiency utility in Nova Scotia, provides essential programs that drive energy goals and combat climate change by transforming energy use in the province. RFS Energy was contracted to gather insights and identify relevant trends in Indigenous initiatives across regions, uncover existing gaps for E1 and inform future opportunities for engagement with Mi’kmaw communities across Nova Scotia. conducting a market analysis and jurisdictional review of energy efficiency program offerings and support for Indigenous communities to

OUR APPROACH

RFS Energy provided comprehensive project management and research services and executed the following key activities:

• Data Collection:

  • Desktop Research -  Conducted a jurisdictional scan of 59 programs, initiatives, and resources to identify better practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches from other jurisdictions in addressing the needs of local Indigenous communities related to energy efficiency, healthy homes, community-led energy initiatives, capacity building and training initiatives related to energy.

  • Market Research - Facilitated interviews with 5 internal stakeholders at E1 and 6 external industry experts to help evaluate the benefits and challenges of different program delivery models, and identify best practices and gaps in programming. 

• Trend Identification & Gap Analysis - Mapped market segments by province in a chart with key characteristics and potential opportunities, flagging the highest relevancy, and provided evaluation and strategic recommendations based on the collected data.

• Final Report - Delivered a comprehensive summary report featuring actionable recommendations, examples, case studies, and a detailed energy efficiency comparison table.

OUR IMPACT

RFS Energy provided E1 with actionable insights into Indigenous-focused programming, showcasing innovative approaches and lessons learned from programs from countries such as Canada, the U.S., Australia and New Zealand. We developed a comprehensive Summary Research Report with tailored actionable recommendations enabling E1 to enhance the MHEEP program to better meet the unique needs of Indigenous communities and inform the development of current and future program design, capacity requirements and efficiencies for their 5-year Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan. These recommendations will help to foster long-term community empowerment and support a sustainable energy future. 

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